Politeness and courtesy are essential components of Chinese culture and language. Understanding and using polite expressions correctly can greatly improve your communication and interpersonal relationships when interacting with Chinese speakers. Here, we will explore some key expressions of politeness and courtesy in Chinese that are useful for English speakers learning the language.
One of the most common ways to show politeness in Chinese is through the use of the word 请 (qǐng), which means ‘please’ or ‘to invite’. This term is versatile and can be used in various contexts to soften requests or commands, making them more polite.
请你帮我开门。
This sentence means “Please help me open the door.”
Another important expression is 谢谢 (xièxie), which means ‘thank you’. Expressing gratitude is a vital part of politeness in any culture, and it’s no different in Chinese. This phrase can be used in any situation where you would like to thank someone.
谢谢你的帮助。
This sentence translates to “Thank you for your help.”
To respond to thanks, Chinese speakers often use 不客气 (bù kèqi), which literally means ‘don’t be polite’ but is equivalent to ‘you’re welcome’ in English. It’s a humble way of acknowledging someone’s thanks.
A: 谢谢你的礼物。B: 不客气。
This dialogue translates to “A: Thank you for the gift. B: You’re welcome.”
When making requests or seeking permission, 可以 (kěyǐ), meaning ‘can’ or ‘may’, is frequently used. It’s a polite way to ask if something is possible or permissible.
我可以进来吗？
This sentence asks, “May I come in?”
To show respect, especially towards someone older or in a higher position, the phrase 您好 (nín hǎo) is used instead of the more casual 你好 (nǐ hǎo), both meaning ‘hello’. Using 您 instead of 你 elevates the level of formality and respect.
您好，王先生。
This sentence means “Hello, Mr. Wang.”
When apologizing, 对不起 (duìbuqǐ) is the go-to expression, which translates to ‘sorry’. It can be used in most situations where an apology is required.
对不起，我迟到了。
This translates to “Sorry, I am late.”
To express politeness in refusing or declining, 不用了 (bù yòng le) is often used. It translates to ‘no need’ and is a polite way to decline offers or assistance.
不用了，我自己来吧。
This sentence means “No need, I’ll do it myself.”
In formal settings or when addressing someone in written form, the phrase 敬上 (jìng shàng) is used as a polite closing remark, similar to ‘yours sincerely’ or ‘respectfully’. It shows a high level of respect and formality.
张先生，祝您健康，敬上。
This translates to “Mr. Zhang, wishing you health, respectfully.”
Another useful phrase, especially in service settings, is 慢走 (màn zǒu), which literally means ‘walk slowly’ but is used to tell someone to ‘take care’ or ‘go safely’ as they leave.
谢谢光临，慢走。
This sentence means “Thank you for coming, take care.”
Lastly, when expressing humility about one’s home or belongings, the phrase 请多指教 (qǐng duō zhǐjiào) is used. It means ‘please give me your advice’ or ‘please guide me’, and it’s a humble way to welcome someone more knowledgeable or experienced.
欢迎光临，我家很简单，请多指教。
This translates to “Welcome, my home is very simple, please give me your advice.”
By incorporating these expressions of politeness and courtesy into your Chinese language repertoire, you will not only enhance your linguistic skills but also deepen your understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture.
